Alessandro Del Piero is confident Juventus “are not cut out of the Scudetto race” after their 4-1 home defeat to Parma.

The captain didn't even reach half-time in Turin, as he was substituted after Felipe Melo saw red 16 minutes in.

“Did I expect that substitution? No,” was his terse response to a question.

Today's results mean Juve slip down to fifth place and are eight points off leaders Milan.

“We are not cut out of the Scudetto race and now mustn't make the mistake of getting caught up in the emotional response to events.

“We knew that this season would be one of construction after the last negative term. We must seek solidity. Losing at home doesn't help, but there are many games in front of us still.

“We have to recapture our enthusiasm, strength and players, seeing as Fabio Quagliarella joined the injury list today.

“Against Parma we made mistakes and were unable to react. We must hit back against difficulties with determination. Any red card affects the course of the match, but we still should've reacted better.”